Description
Innovative Design for DJs Who Want More
The Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 Hybrid Direct Drive Turntable with DVS immediately catches your eye with its sleek build and professional-grade aesthetics. As someone who appreciates a good design, I found the construction to be both durable and visually appealing. Weighing in at 33.9 pounds, it feels solid without being overly cumbersome, making it stable during use. The 13.9 x 17.8 x 6.3-inch dimensions fit neatly into my DJ setup without hogging too much space.
Its standout feature is undoubtedly the hybrid design, which supports both analog record playback and tone-arm-free DVS control. This dual functionality is a game changer for DJs looking to experiment with traditional vinyl and modern digital setups. The tone-arm-free DVS control is particularly intriguing, reducing wear on records while maintaining precision. The build quality felt premium, with no creaky plastic components, which often plague cheaper alternatives.
Performance That Doesn’t Miss a Beat
Testing this turntable was a treat. Its direct drive mechanism ensures consistent speed and smooth operation, which is crucial during scratching and mixing. I paired it with Serato and rekordbox, both of which it supports seamlessly. The adjustable record weight was a feature I didn’t think I needed until I started using it. Being able to tweak the weight gave me better control over how the needle interacted with the vinyl, especially when working with older or slightly warped records.
The 4 MIDI performance pads added a layer of creative freedom I didn’t expect. These pads allowed me to trigger loops and samples effortlessly, making transitions between tracks much smoother. The USB-C connection made setup straightforward when linking it to my computer. I appreciated the lack of lag or latency issues, which can sometimes ruin live performances. Whether you’re a seasoned DJ or someone diving into the hobby, this turntable delivers exceptional performance.
Key Benefits
- Hybrid design for analog and digital setups.
- Direct drive system for consistent performance.
- Adjustable record weight enhances user control.
- Seamless compatibility with Serato and rekordbox.
- Inclusion of MIDI performance pads for creative flexibility.
Potential Areas for Improvement
While I enjoyed using the turntable, there are a few areas of concern that stood out:
- The learning curve for the tone-arm-free DVS control might be steep for beginners. It took me a while to get used to the workflow.
- At 33.9 pounds, it’s not the most portable option, making it less ideal for DJs who frequently travel.
- The price point may deter casual users or hobbyists, as it leans towards the premium side of the spectrum.
Competing Products
In a market filled with options, comparing this hybrid turntable to others is essential. The Technics SL-1200 series, a classic in the DJ community, offers a similar direct drive mechanism and robust build. However, it lacks the DVS functionality found here, making it less versatile for DJs who juggle between vinyl and digital formats.
Another competitor is the Reloop RP-8000 MK2, which also features performance pads. While it’s slightly lighter and more portable, the build quality doesn’t feel as premium as this product. Additionally, the adjustable record weight feature on the PLX-CRSS12 gives it an edge for those who value precision.
In terms of innovation, this turntable outshines many of its rivals. The tone-arm-free design is a bold move that truly sets it apart, especially for DJs who prioritize minimizing vinyl wear.
Value Proposition
Given the features and performance, this is a smart spending choice for professionals. While the initial investment may seem high, the advanced functionality and durability ensure it’s a long-term asset. Compared to traditional turntables that only support analog playback, this hybrid model offers much more, including DVS control, performance pads, and USB-C connectivity.
For those serious about DJing, this turntable is worth considering. It’s not just about spinning records—it’s about expanding your creative horizons. Although the price to quality ratio might be a bit steep for beginners, seasoned enthusiasts will find it to be a worthwhile addition to their gear.
